Evidence indicates that the wavelengths emitted by distant stars in the galaxy are longer than would be expected, given the atmospheres of the stars. Most astrophysicists agree that a longer wavelength emitted by a star signifies an increased distance. From this information, scientists claim that the universe is expanding.

The two items that appear in boldface play which of the following roles?

A. The first boldfaced phrase provides evidence in support of a claim; the second boldfaced statement is that claim.B. The first boldfaced phrase provides a claim in opposition to another claim; the second boldfaced statement is that claim.C. The first boldfaced phrase provides a claim in support of a larger claim; the second boldfaced statement is that claim.D. Both boldfaced phrases provide evidence in support of a major claim.

Correct answer: AExplanation: The first boldfaced phrase provides the major claim of the argument; the second boldfaced statement provides a claim in support of that major claim.

My answer: CMy issue with the correct answer/explanation:

First, the correct answer states that the first boldfaced phrase provides 'evidence', which is not the case. It states that 'many astrophysicists agree...' meaning that some astrophysicists do not agree. This is not evidence, but a widely accepted claim.

Second, the correct answer and explanation contradict each other. In the correct answer choice (A), the first boldfaced phrase is supporting the second boldfaced claim, whereas in the explanation it's stating that the first boldfaced claim is the major claim of the argument (and admitting that both boldfaced phrases are claims, not evidence as the correct answer suggests).

Please provide some help explaining this one. My issue with the answer/explanation is in the spoiler.